Singapore is famous for being the cleanest city in the world. Tourists will be astonished and impressed by the strict rules and regulations formed by the Singapore government. There are many posters in buildings and parks telling people what they should do, what they shouldn’t do and how much they will be fined if they break the rules. That is the reason why Singapore is called “the fine city”.

The Singaporean government wants to establish a clean and green country where all citizens are well educated and are considerately to others. Therefore they have set many strict rules as well as put a lot of instructions and reminders in public places so that people always remember what they aren’t allowed to do and everything is orderly. Children are taught at school and in their family, right from very early ages, about what they should do and how to behave in this society.

If you are a tourist visiting Singapore, you should be considerate and pay attention to every one of your actions. There are many things considered normal in your country but which are illegal in Singapore. You will be fined heavily if you litter or smoke in public places. Also remember to flush public toilets after using it so that you aren’t fined S$500.

It is summer and you enjoy lying on the beach sunbathing. However, if you are in Singapore, you mustn’t go nude or topless when sunbathing, even if it is your own back yard. It is forbidden in Singapore and you will be fined if you’re caught doing that.

Chewing gum is not forbidden in Singapore but bringing gum into the country in large amount is illegal and the gum seller can be sent to jail. Therefore, be careful with what you bring to Singapore. You can find more information about what is not allowed to be brought into Singapore by visiting the Singaporean customs’ website.

Drugs are strictly forbidden in Singapore. People trafficking, manufacturing, importing or exporting more than 15g of heroin, 30g of morphine, 30g of cocaine, 500g of cannabis, 200g of cannabis resin and 1.2kg of opium are sentenced to death. Possessing these amounts is also regarded as trafficking and equals a death penalty. Therefore you must not get involved in drugs in Singapore by any means.

Thanks to the strict laws of Singapore, this country is very safe and orderly. There is virtually no crime, no corruption and you are safe even when walking alone at night. There may be some pickpockets in crowded places. However, they are rare unlike any other Asian countries.

Every year a large number of tourists are fined during their stay in Singapore because they are unaware of the strict rules and regulations. You should read about its rules and regulations carefully before going there and be aware of every board, poster or sign you see. Being a decent person and showing your respect to others, you won’t encounter any problems and will have an enjoyable stay in this clean country.

By: Michael Russell

About the Author:
Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Asia

Are you considering migrating to other parts of the world to start a new chapter of your life?

Are you moving so as to look for a job? Or do you yearn to experience a different culture?

If you were looking for a decent job as well as a place where you can live comfortably, then I would recommend you “Singapore”.

In a survey conducted recently, Singapore was picked as the best city in the world for Asian expatriates to live in. Beating Japan, Shanghai and even Hong Kong.

There are many reasons for choosing to work and live in Singapore, but basically there are 7. They are:

Strong Law Enforcements –

You never get to see protests, strikes and riots in the streets of Singapore. This is the result of the strict law enforcement by the police. Anybody caught involved in any of the above events, will be jailed and fined.

Currently, death penalty still exists in Singapore. Anybody caught drug trafficking, or committed murder or kidnap would be sentenced to death.

Another benefit of living in Singapore is it is quite safe to walk alone in the streets. Though crimes do occur, the rates are relative lower than that in other countries.

The locals joke that anybody who committed a crime has nowhere to run but jump into the sea (this is because Singapore is surrounded by sea). Another joke is that before the robber can escape, the police have arrived (Singapore is so small).

Climate –

What makes Singapore so attractive to live in is its peaceful environment. There are no natural disasters, such as earthquakes, typhoons, tornadoes and winter coldness. All you have is either rain or shine. But the air-conditioning is extremely powerful. You could say it’s winter indoor.

Networking –

Making use of the geographical location of Singapore, many big and small organisations set up bases here to have access to other parts of Asia and Middle East.

It is being used as a “Gateway”.

Even companies from China are setting up offices here to access markets in U.S.A and Europe. They are doing so partly to gain from the Free Trade Agreements signed between these countries and Singapore.

Even foreign workers are using this small country as a stepping stone to gain work experiences and improve their English so that they can move on to other developed countries such as U.S.A., Europe and Australia.

Since almost everybody is coming here, it has become the place for networking for both businesses and jobseekers.

Lenient Immigration Rules –

Do you know that Singapore is one of the countries that have the least strict immigration rules?

Anybody can come to Singapore as long as he/she obtains the necessary passes or documents.

Transport –

You can travel from one end of Singapore to the other end within an hour!

The transport system here covers the whole country and you don’t have to own a car to travel.

Public transport includes the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) trains, buses and cabs/taxis.

Even if you own a car, the roads are well connected.

Education –

The education system caters to all students.

There are many schools, colleges, and universities for those who do well academically.

For those good in sports, there is even a sports school to nurture and train them.

Besides these schools, there are also several polytechnics and institutions to equip students with specialised skills.

Even the private schools and institutions in Singapore are of high quality. This is why so many foreign students enrol and study here. When these foreign students have graduated, many chose to continue to stay and work here.

Political Environment –

Singapore is quite unique in terms of its political environment. There are very few opposition parties. The dominant political group is the People’s Action Party (PAP) that governs Singapore since independence day.

As such, there are no coups, resistance, or even clashes.

This is important for companies who invest here and for foreigners who live here. They can be assured of safety and security. You don’t have to worry about loss of investments and jobs due to unstable political environment.

Another reason why the political environment here attracts foreigners is its policy. The Singapore government welcome talents.

You would be surprised to know that in year 2005, about 44% of the jobs available were given to foreigners! (These 44% do not include permanent residents).

In fact, Singapore is so hungry for talented and skilled people. As long as you have the skills, knowledge, experiences or talents, you are definitely welcome here.

Of course there are many other reasons why thousands of foreigners are flocking to Singapore to seek jobs or to live here. But the above are the main reasons behind such move.

If you are tempted to migrate to Singapore by these 7 reasons, be assured you are not alone.

Who knows, you might even settle down and get a citizenship.

By: Hor Yen-Ying

About the Author:
Copyright@2006 Yen-Ying Hor http://www.globalcareerinformation.com/Author: Hor Yen-Ying currently resides in Singapore and have written an ebook “Work In Singapore” to guide those who are interested in coming to Singapore to find jobs or to live here. URL: http://www.globalcareerinformation.com/

The word Singapore is derived from a Malay word ‘Singa’ and ‘pura’ which means lion and city respectively. So, the city is also referred as lion city. Singapore has proved the worth of its name and these things impresses a many people several times. This island state has significantly changes its status from sleeping fishing village to important financial centre. It has become a prominent tourist destination and a gateway for all kinds of travelers’ right from an adventure holiday, leisure trip, business destination or even a stop-off destination.

Whatever is your trip purpose but accommodation always remains your prime concern. Singapore Luxury Hotels are available in wide verities and the most alluring fact is its proximity with the prime tourist centers like Singapore zoo, Orchard Road, Jurong town and Sentosa Island. All these areas are prominent tourism centre in the Singapore. Sentosa Island is a wonderful amusement park spread in 390 hectare area. One can easily access several luxury Singapore hotels all around the park. The centre of Singapore industry is Jurong town and it is very popular amongst the tourist due to few beautiful sites like Chinese garden, Singapore discovery centre and Jurong Bird Park. Similarly, Orchard Road is a leading shopping area. One can easily find here luxury hotel Singapore, with excellent restaurants, international malls, coffee bars, wine bars and much more.

Apart from shopping extravaganzas; Singapore festivals also attracts numerous tourists every year. Top crews of 24 men from all over world compete in Singapore Dragon Boat Festival. They speed through the water to the invigorating beat of drums and gongs. This event is very popular in all over South-East Asia wherever Chinese influence has been pervasive. Singapore Fireworks celebration is an annual festival to celebrate the independence from Malaysia. This awesome event includes jaw-dropping pyromusicals which illuminate the city skyline. This carnival opens in the evening with lively street performances and people from all over world participate in different live shows.

Festival of the hungry ghosts is a very special event as it holds enormous faith and blindly follows the era old tradition. Birthday of Monkey God is another auspicious occasion for the locals as well as tourist to explore the real Singapore. On the ninth day of Nine Emperor Gods Festival; the images of gods are paraded from the temple onto the street carried on an elaborate sedan. Thus these few occasions provide nice view of the stunning Singapore.

By: Gagan Makin

About the Author:
The website offers exclusive information of online reservation of Singapore Hotels. Also provide information about reservation of Singapore Luxury Hotels.

One of the most interesting places in Singapore that are worth a visit are the innumerable gardens, parklands, tropical greenery, flowers and trees, expressways, bridges and houses.

The important tourist places in Singapore include the following:

The Bukit Timah nature reserve is one of the best wildlife sanctuaries. This 164 hectare has a rainforest within its boundaries that contain several species of plants. At the heart of the nature reserve, is Singapore’s Bukit Timah Hill. You can indulge in a beautiful trek while bird-watching. There are monkeys and pangolins too for company.

The Chinese and Japanese gardens – this is a short 5 minute walk from the Chinese garden MRT station. The two gardens are situated adjacent to each other and complement each other’s beauty because of their contrasting landscapes. The 13 hectare Chinese garden is a reflection of the Chinese Imperial Garden which has twin pagodas and a suzhou-style Penjing garden. The Japanese Garden has a distinct style with stone lanterns, Zen rock garden, classical Japanese motifs that create a calming atmosphere.

East Coast Park- the East Coast Park of Singapore comes under one of the famous tourist places in Singapore. It covers a sprawling area which also hosts the playground for Singaporeans. There are such sports as bowling, cycling, windsurfing, canoeing, picnicking or even taking a leisurely walk. Go food binging after a good few hours of sports. The East Coast Lagoon and the several beaches like Pulau Ubin and Kusu Island are a must when vacationing.

Fort Canning Park- This park was built between 1859 and 1861 by the British which was originally an arms store, barracks and hospital. This was considered a sacred place for the Malays as several graves of Malay rulers lie here.

One can also visit the bungalow built by Sir Stamford Raffles which was Singapore’s first government house. Fort canning is also the place where theatre is several artistic displays of masterpieces.

The Mandai Orchid Gardens- this one is said to be one of the biggest commercial orchid gardens. One can see a display of exotic and vivid orchids and how they have been cultivated.

Mount Faber: You can view Singapore’s skyline, the harbor and offshore islands. Sentosa is within reach by cable car.

Singapore Botanic Gardens- this garden is essentially a jungle with manicured gardens spread across 52 hectares of land. There is an endless treasure of flora along with many specimens.

The Night Safari in Singapore is one of the best adventure tours one can indulge in. it is the world’s first night zoo where one can see the behavior of nocturnal animals in 8 different geographical zones. Some 1000 nocturnal creatures can be seen in these zones right from fierce predators to timid forest dwellers. They are put in the best possible natural surroundings.

The other interesting places to visit in Singapore are The Singapore Crocodilarium, Jurong Bird Park and Jurong Reptile Park. They can be all accessed from the Changi Airport.

Singapore proves to be hotspot with the tourists. People love to visit the ample tourist destinations and unwind in the well facilitated and good hotels, spas and resorts while in Singapore.

For more information on Tourist Places in Singapore , please visit Tourist Places in Singapore

By: Smith Spencer

About the Author:
Smith is the Content Coordinator for http://www.focussingapore.com – This website is solely dedicated to the focus in Singapore. We provide all information related to Singapore.

Singapore is a lively and unique travel destination. Singapore is a blend of both eastern and western cultures which is why this South East Asian nation is such a popular tourism destination for both Asian and European travelers.

Sir Stamford Raffles plays an important part in Singaporean history. Raffles was a British government official who more or less put Singapore on the map as a strong trade and business center.

Hundreds of years before Raffles purchased Singapore from the ruler of Johor in the early 19th century. Singapore had been an insignificant settlement at that time however under the British ruler ship it quickly flourished into one of the economic powers in Asia.

The Japanese took control off Singapore in 1942 during the midst of the 2nd world war. At the end of 3 years of Japanese occupation, Singapore was returned to the British.

The Singaporean population soon after made it clear to its British rulers that they in fact wanted to govern and control their own country which lead to its self government which started in 1959.

During the early 1960′s, Singapore briefly joined for a 2 period the Malaysian federation however it soon became clear that Singapore was better off as a fully independent nation.

Many of the larger nations in the regions believed at that time that Singapore was making an error due to its short supply of natural resources and its small size.

The Singapore prime minister at that time, Lee Kuan, believed however that Singapore did have an existence right as an independent nation and he proofed himself right by starting and expanding an export orientated industry as well as a flourishing tourism industry.

The tourism industry has proven to be a very successful and has been an important part in Singapore’s success. Tourists especially love the blend of different cultures and cuisines due to the backgrounds of its citizens.

Many Singaporeans have Chinese, Malaysian or Indian ancestors which can be seen throughout Singapore. Have a walk through the streets of Singapore and you can spot a temple on one corner, a church on the next and mosque just next door.

Dining in Singapore is a true delight due to the fusion of the various cuisines which have created some excellent dishes which are unique to Singapore, Not only has Singapore proven to a popular destination for tourists however has also been a big hit with business travelers.

Due to the excellent meeting and congress facilities in Singapore, many large international events are held in Singapore which attracts thousands of visitors and exhibitors each month which have increased hotel occupancy levels to the highest in the region together with those of Hong Kong.

Singapore remains an extremely clean town where you will find that Singaporeans try their best in keeping their city spotless. Throwing rubbish on the street is strongly frowned upon by locals and big fines are issued to those that do so.

The laws and rules in Singapore are known to be among the toughest in the world as are the punishments to those that break the laws.

Singapore still has the death penalty and has one of the highest averages per capita which it involves the number of people executed.

There have been a number of high profile executions recently involving foreign nationals however the Singaporean government was not forgiving or flexible in any way when foreign governments requested clemency or mercy for its citizens.

Singapore is somewhat of the political leader of the group of countries that make up the ASEAN which stands for the association of South East Asian Nations which also include countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand for example.

Singapore has been a stabilizing factor in the region although it had its own share of tensions with neighboring Malaysia over various topics including fishing territories, air space and natural resources. Singapore however has always been able to resolve matters at the negotiation table.

By: James Bukovsky

About the Author:
James is currently living on Phuket and is working on a number of projects. If you are looking for a great Phuket hotel then do consider staying at Club Bamboo Resort. Read more about Samui in his Samui Guide